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Gastrointestinal Cancers

We treat patients with all types of gastrointestinal cancer, including pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, stomach (gastric) cancer, and cancers of the bile ducts, esophagus and gallbladder.

Our expert physicians and surgeons have sophisticated training with the most up-to-date technology and latest treatment approaches.

Honored for Cancer Expertise

Independence Blue Cross named us a Blue Distinction Center for Complex and Rare Cancers®, including stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer and liver cancer. The Commission on Cancer, American College of Surgeons, gave us its 2012 Outstanding Achievement Award, one of only three Pennsylvania centers to receive that honor for cancer treatment excellence.

Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Cancer

Diagnostic tests may include: abdominal and endoscopic ultrasound, ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), x-rays and biopsy. ERCP may be used to relieve blockages. Other tests may be used for diagnosis as well. We also provide consultations (second opinions) for patients originally diagnosed elsewhere.

Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment

Our specialists are highly experienced and individualize treatment for each patient. They also conduct clinical trials research, giving patients opportunities to participate and benefit from innovative therapies.

Surgery for gastrointestinal cancer may remove part or all of an affected organ. Chemotherapy may be administered before or after surgery or radiation, on its own, or along with radiation. Targeted therapy also may be given.

Radiation therapy is used to stop cancer growth or to relieve disease symptoms. It may follow surgery or be administered before, after or along with chemotherapy.

Some patients whose diagnosis would indicate surgery are not surgical candidates due to frailty, advanced age or other health concerns. Interventional radiology (IR) procedures are minimally invasive options for these patients. Radiofrequency ablation, chemoembolization or radioembolization may be used.

Fertility Preservation

Before starting any cancer treatment, talk with your oncologist about whether the therapy could affect your fertility. Our reproductive endocrinologists help with fertility preservation before cancer treatment or appropriate infertility treatment if cancer therapy has already been given.